How to Frame Your Own Pictures

“Making a picture frame is a bit like making a pie—a series of satisfying small steps, but not too much of any one stage,” writes Warren (Fear-Busting), owner of Woodland Pie framing, in this charming how-to. She begins with images of an upcycled gold frame, several box frames, and some colorful floating mounts before digging into the tools one will need to make their own, among them a miter saw, a corner clamp, craft knives, and some standard equipment such as a hammer and screwdriver. Next come the projects—there’s a basic frame; a “Simple Stretched-Canvas Panel”; a decoupage cork, chalk, or peg board; and an embossed holiday frame, each broken down into step-by-step instructions. “Insider tips” are sprinkled throughout and offer guidance on making one’s own paint, methods for picking frame and wood colors, and how much depth to give a piece. While even the simple projects require a fair amount of equipment and materials, Warren does a good job of presenting DIY framing as cost-effective, fun, and full of imagination: “Framing should be creatively expressive, rather than an exercise in military precision.” Casual crafters likely need not apply, but those serious about framing will find this a great resource. (Feb.)